Stored-value card with light

ABSTRACT

A stored-value card includes a housing, a light circuit and an account identifier. The housing includes a cover and a base. The cover and the base each define a respective primary panel and a plurality of side walls extending from the respective primary panel. The plurality of side walls defined by the base abut the plurality of side walls defined by the cover. The light circuit includes a light and a switch. The light circuit is substantially enclosed between the base and the cover, and the light is configured to emit illumination upon user interaction with the switch. The account identifier links the stored-value card to an account or record such that value from the account or record can be used as payment toward a purchase of one or more of goods and services. Stored-value card assemblies and methods of using a stored-value card are also disclosed.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of and claims priority under 35U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/038,018, filed Jan.18, 2005 and entitled “Stored-Value Card with Light,” which isincorporated herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Stored-value cards and other financial transactions cards come in manyforms. A gift card, for example, is a type of stored-value card thatincludes pre-loaded or selectively loaded monetary value. In oneexample, a customer buys a gift card having a specified value forpresentation as a gift for another person. In another example, acustomer is offered a gift card as an incentive to make a purchase. Agift card, like other stored-value cards, can be “recharged” or“reloaded” at the direction of the bearer. The balance associated withthe card declines as the card is used, encouraging repeat visits to theretailer or other provider issuing the card. Additionally, the cardgenerally remains in the user's purse or wallet, serving as anadvertisement or reminder to revisit the associated retailer. Gift cardsprovide a number of advantages to both the consumer and the retailer.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the present invention relates to a stored-value cardincluding a housing, a light circuit and an account identifier. Thehousing includes a cover and a base. The cover and the base each definea respective primary panel and a plurality of side walls extending fromthe respective primary panel. The plurality of side walls defined by thebase abut the plurality of side walls defined by the cover. The lightcircuit includes a light and a switch. The light circuit issubstantially enclosed between the base and the cover, and the light isconfigured to emit illumination upon user interaction with the switch.The account identifier links the stored-value card to an account orrecord such that value from the account or record can be used as paymenttoward a purchase of one or more of goods and services. Other relatedproducts and methods are also disclosed and provide additionaladvantages.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will be described with respect to thefigures, in which like reference numerals denote like elements, and inwhich:

FIG. 1 is an exploded, top perspective view of one embodiment of astored-value card, according to the present invention.

FIG. 2A is a bottom view of one embodiment of a base the stored-valuecard of FIG. 1, according to the present invention.

FIG. 2B is a top view of one embodiment of the base of FIG. 2.

FIG. 3A is a bottom view of one embodiment of a cover of thestored-value card of FIG. 1, according to the present invention.

FIG. 3B is a top view of one embodiment of the cover of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4 is a bottom, perspective view of one embodiment of a button of astored-value card, according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a top view of one embodiment of a light circuit of astored-value card, according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a top view of one embodiment of a partially assembledstored-value card, according to the present invention.

FIG. 7A is a front view of one embodiment of an unfolded backer for astored-value card, according to the present invention.

FIG. 7B is a back view of the unfolded backer of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8 is a side view of one embodiment of a packaged stored-value card,according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is an exploded, top perspective view of one embodiment of astored-value card, according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A gift card or other stored-value card is adapted for making purchasesof goods and/or services from e.g. a retail store or website. Accordingto one embodiment, an original consumer buys the stored-value card togive a recipient who in turn is able to use the stored-value card at aretail store or setting to pay for goods and/or services. Thestored-value card, according to embodiments of the present invention,provides the consumer and recipient with extra amusement in addition tothe ability to pay for goods and/or services with the stored-value card.In particular, the stored-value card presents the original consumer andthe recipient the ability to illuminate at least a portion of thestored-value card.

In some embodiments, the light of the stored-value card emphasizes therelationship of the stored-value card to a particular occasion, such asa wedding, new baby, graduation, holiday, season, etc. The light mayalso relate to printed indicia on the stored-value card for unifying theoverall appearance of the illuminated light and the remainder of thestored-value card. For example, in the case of a Christmas holiday, aconsumer purchases the stored-value card including indicia relating tothe Christmas holiday, such as a Christmas tree, and a light positionedto be a tree ornament. In other embodiments, the stored value cardrelates to another life event such as a birthday and includesillustrations incorporating the light, such as a clown with a lightednose, button, eye, etc. Accordingly, the recipient of the holiday cardcan enjoy the amusement of light display, and can also use thestored-value card to shop for a gift or other items.

Turning to the figures, FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded, top perspectiveview of one embodiment of a stored-value card 10, according to thepresent invention. Stored-value card 10 includes a housing 12, a lightcircuit 14, a button 16, and a face panel 18. Light circuit 14 andbutton 16 are each at least partially enclosed within housing 12. Inparticular, button 16 is positioned to interact with light circuit 14.In particular, upon depression of button 16 by a user, light circuit 14is activated to illuminate a light 20 included in light circuit 14. Facepanel 18 is optionally adhered to housing 12 to provide indicia relatingto one or more of an occasion, season, store identifier, brandidentifier, media format indicia (e.g. characters, logos, scenes, orother illustrations or photographs relating to at least one of a movie,television show, book, video game, etc.), etc.

Housing 12 includes a first housing member 22 and a second housingmember 24. In one embodiment, first housing member 22 is a base, andsecond housing member 24 is a cover. One embodiment of base 22 isillustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B. Base 22 generally includes a primarypanel 30 and side walls 32, 34, 36, and 38. Primary panel 30 isgenerally planar and defines an outside surface 40 and an inside surface42 opposite outside surface 40. In one embodiment, primary panel 30 isgenerally rectangular and sized similarly to an identification card, acredit card, or other card sized to fit in a wallet of a user. In otherembodiments, primary panel 30 is otherwise shaped as a square, circle,oval, star, or any other suitable shape.

Side walls 32, 34, 36, and 38 each extend from inside surface 42 awayfrom outside surface 40 and collectively extend generally about theentire perimeter of primary panel 30. In one embodiment, each side wall32, 34, 36, and 38 extends with a generally perpendicular orientationrelative to primary panel 30. In particular, first side wall 32 ispositioned opposite and extends generally parallel to third side wall36. Second side wall 34 and fourth side wall 38 extend between firstside wall 32 and third side wall 36 opposite and generally parallel toone another.

Each side wall 32, 34, 36, and 38 stems from primary panel 30 tocollectively define an inside edge 44. In one example, inside edge 44 isformed as a stepped edge including a first portion 46 and a secondportion 48. First portion 46 extends from primary panel 30 a furtherdistance than second portion 48 extends from primary panel 30 asillustrated with additional reference to FIG. 1. In one example, firstportion 46 generally extends about the perimeter of second portion 48.In this respect, edge 44 is formed as a stepped edge with the lower,second portion 48 being positioned just inside the higher, first portion46. In one embodiment, at least first portion 46 forms curved orchamfered corners at the intersection of each side wall 32, 34, 36, and38 with another of side walls 32, 34, 36, and 38. A notch 49 is definedby fourth side wall 38. In particular, notch 49 extends from inside edge44 down into fourth side wall 38 to terminate in a rounded manner. Inone example, notch 49 is generally centered along the length of fourthside wall 38.

A plurality of apertures 50 extend through primary panel 30. Moreparticularly, each aperture 50 extends from outside surface 40 throughinside surface 42. In one embodiment, an aperture 50 is positioned nearthe intersection of each side wall 32, 34, 36, and 38 with another oneof side walls 32, 34, 36, and 38. In one embodiment, apertures 50 aresized to at least partially receive a connection device, such as a screwor other device for coupling base 22 with cover 24. In one example, eachaperture 50 allows the head of the screw or other attachment device tobe recessed and, accordingly, includes a slightly larger section neareroutside surface 40 than near inside surface 42. In one embodiment, acylindrical protrusion 52 extends from inside surface 42 around eachaperture 50.

Outside surface 40 includes an account identifier 60 such as a barcode,magnetic strip, a smart chip or other electronic device, a radiofrequency identification device, or other suitable identifier readilyreadable by a point-of-sale terminal or other account access station orkiosk. Account identifier 60 indicates a financial account or record towhich stored-value card 10 is linked. The account or record of themonetary balance on stored-value card 10 optionally is maintained on adatabase, other electronic or manual record-keeping system, or, in thecase of “smart” cards for example, on a chip or other electronics ordevices on stored-value card 10 itself. Accordingly, by scanning accountidentifier 60, a financial account or record linked to stored-value card10 is identified and can subsequently be activated, if amounts aredebited therefrom, and/or have amounts added thereto. With the above inmind, account identifier 60 is one example of means for linkingstored-value card 10 with a financial account or record and of means foractivating or loading value on stored-value card 10.

In one embodiment, redemption indicia 62 are included on outside surface40. Redemption indicia 62 indicate that stored-value card 10 isredeemable for the purchase of goods and/or services and that, upon use,a value of the purchased goods and/or services will be deducted from thefinancial account or record linked to stored-value card 10. In oneembodiment, redemption indicia 62 include phrases such as “<NAME OFSTORE> GiftCard” and “This GiftCard is redeemable for merchandise orservices at any of our stores or at our web site,” and/or provides helpor phone line information in case of a lost, stolen, or damagedstored-value card, etc. In one embodiment, other indicia are alsoincluded on outside surface 40.

In one embodiment, inside surface 42 defines a light assemblyindentation 70, a first light holder 72, and a second light holder 74.Indentation 70 is generally positioned to correspond with thepositioning of light circuit 14 within housing 12 upon assembly.Indentation 70 is defined as an area where primary panel 30 is aslightly lesser thickness than other areas of primary panel 30. In thisrespect, light assembly indentation 70 provides additional clearance forlight circuit 14 to fit between base 22 and cover 24. With this in mind,in one example, light assembly indentation 70 is generally shapedsimilarly to light circuit 14.

Light holders 72 and 74 are adapted to support a portion of lightcircuit 14 and to maintain that portion of light circuit 14 spaced frominside surface 42 of primary panel 30. In one embodiment, each lightholder 72 and 74 includes notches 76, illustrated with additionalreference to FIG. 1, for receiving a portion of light circuit 14. Lightholders 72 and 74 are integrally formed as one piece with the remainderof base 22. Conversely, light holders 72 and 74 can be separately formedand coupled to inside surface 42 of base 22. In one example, only onelight holder 72 or 74 is included in base 22.

One embodiment of cover 24 is illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B. Cover 24generally includes a primary panel 80 and side walls 82, 84, 86, and 88.Primary panel 80 is generally planar and defines an outside surface 90and an inside surface 92 opposite outside surface 90. In one embodiment,primary panel 80 is generally sized similarly to primary panel 30 ofbase 22. Side walls 82, 84, 86, and 88 each extend from inside surface92 and collectively extend generally about the entire perimeter ofprimary panel 80. For example, each side wall 32, 34, 36, and 38 extendswith a generally perpendicular orientation relative to primary panel 80.In particular, first side wall 82 is positioned opposite and generallyparallel third side wall 86. Second side wall 84 and fourth side wall 88extend between first side wall 82 and third side wall 86 opposite andgenerally parallel to one another.

Each side wall 82, 84, 86, and 88 extends from primary panel 80 tocollectively form an inside edge 94 opposite primary panel 80. In oneembodiment, inside edge 94 is a stepped edge including a first portion96 and a second portion 98. In one embodiment, first portion 96 extendsfrom primary panel 80 a smaller distance than second portion 98 extendsfrom primary panel 80. First portion 96 generally extends around theperimeter of second portion 98. In this respect, inside edge 94 isformed as a stepped edge with higher, second portion 98 being positionedjust inside lower, first portion 96. In one embodiment, the corners ofinside edge 94 formed at the intersections of side walls 82, 84, 86, and88 with another of side walls 82, 84, 86, and 88 are rounded orchamfered. A notch 99 is defined by fourth side wall 88. In particular,notch 99 extends from inside edge 94 into fourth side wall 88 toterminate in a rounded manner. In one embodiment, notch 99 is generallycentered along the length of fourth side wall 88.

Cover 24 includes a plurality of protrusions 100 extending from insidesurface 92 parallel to side walls 82, 84, 86, and 88. One protrusion 100is positioned near each of the corners of edges 94 (i.e. near theintersections of side walls 82, 84, 86, and 88 with another side wall82, 84, 86, and 88). In one embodiment, each protrusion 100 extendsfurther from inside surface 92 than each side wall 82, 84, 86, and 88extend beyond inside surface 92. Each protrusion 100 is positioned oncover 24 to generally align with one of apertures 50 of base 22 uponassembly. A threaded cavity 102 is formed within each protrusion 100. Inone embodiment, each threaded cavity 102 is configured to receive ascrew or other connection device for coupling base 22 with cover 24.

A button aperture 104 extends through primary panel 80. Button aperture104 is sized and shaped to receive button 16. In one embodiment, araised rim 106 extends upward from inside surface 92 generally aroundthe perimeter of button aperture 104. In one example, button aperture104 and raised rim 106 are positioned to correspond with the positioningof at least a portion of light circuit 14 as will be further describedbelow.

In one embodiment, cover 24 includes at least one spacer or protrusion108 extending from inside surface 92 parallel to the general extensionof side walls 82, 84, 86, and 88. Protrusion 108 is configured tointeract with inside surface 42 of base 22 upon assembly. Accordingly,protrusion 108 is configured to prevent collapse or cave-in ofstored-value card 10 in areas where primary panels 30 and 80 of base 22and cover 24, respectively, are not fully supported relative to eachother by components within housing 12, such as light circuit 14. In oneexample, protrusion 108 is shaped as an “X” or cross extending frominside surface 92. Other suitable protrusions or spacers are alsocontemplated to facilitate prevention or at least decreasing the chanceof collapse of housing 12 of stored-value card 10 near the protrusion orspacer.

Turning to FIG. 3B, outside surface 90 partially defines buttonapertures 104. In addition, in one embodiment, a panel indentation 110is defined on outside surface 90 and is sized and configured to receiveface panel 18.

In one embodiment, each of base 22 and cover 24 is formed by injectionmolding of a plastic such as PVC or any other suitable material todefine the various attributes of base 22 and cover 24. Other methods offorming base 22 and cover 24 are also contemplated. In one embodiment,in which base 22 is formed by injection molding, account identifier 60,redemption indicia 62, and any other indicia or information are printedonto outside surface 40 injection molded base 22.

In one embodiment, base 24 and cover 24 are each formed of materialshaving a similar or identical color. In other embodiments, base 22 andcover 24 may be formed of materials having different coloring. Forexample, in one embodiment, base 22 is formed of a white material tobest display printed indicia 62, 60, etc. on its outer surface 40 whilecover 24 is formed of a different colored material to correspond withand/or complement the coloring of face panel 18.

Face panel 18 is generally planar and is formed of paper, plastic, orother suitable material. In one embodiment, face panel 18 is sized tofit within panel indentation 110 of cover 24. With this in mind, panel18 includes a first, outer surface 120 and a second, inner surface 122.First surface 120 includes indicia such as decorative indicia 124, brandindicia 126, and a button indicator 128. In one embodiment, decorativeindicia 124 relate to a particular occasion, such as a wedding, newbaby, graduation, holiday, season, etc., or a particular character,brand identifier, store identifier, media format indicia, or othervisual design to promote the purchase of stored-value card 10.

Accordingly, face panel 18 provides one example means for associatingstored-value card 10 with at least one of a product brand, a store, aholiday, a season, an occasion, a life event, and media format indicia.In one particular embodiment, decorative indicia 124 include a pictureor a graphic representing an animal or character, e.g. a clown, andother secondary indicia, e.g. balloons, or any others suitablecombination of indicia relating to a particular holiday, life event,etc. Brand indicia 126 identify a brand associated with stored-valuecard 10, such as identifying a product brand, a store brand, etc.

Button indicator 128 is positioned on face panel 18 to generally alignwith button 16 upon assembly. In this respect, button indicator 128indicates where the bearer, e.g., the customer or recipient, can push onstored-value card 10 to illuminate light 20, as will be furtherdescribed below. Other combinations or selections of information orindicia to be displayed on face panel 18 are also contemplated. In analternative embodiment, indicia described to be included on face panel18 are directly printed to cover 24. In one embodiment, first, outsidesurface 120 of face panel 18 is printed and finished in any one of avariety of ways, such as matte, gloss, textured, or other suitableeffect or finish. In one example, the finish is selected to furthercompliment the indicia included on first, outside surface 120.

Second, inside surface 122 is configured to interface with cover 24within indentation 110. In one embodiment, face panel 18 is adhered tocover 24 with any suitable adhesive. In other embodiments, face panel 18is formed on an adhesive backed plastic, paper, cardstock, etc. and isdirectly applied and adhered to cover 24.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of button 16 ofstored-value card 10. Button 16 generally includes a relatively shorthollow cylinder 130, an end wall 132, and a pin 134. End wall 132extends across one end of hollow cylinder 130. Pin 134 extends from endwall 132 through the center of cylinder 130. In one embodiment, pin 134extends from end wall 132 a distance further than cylinder 130 extendsfrom end wall 132. Pin 134 is relatively rigid. A ring or rim 136extends about the perimeter of cylinder 130 on an end opposite end wall132. More particularly, rim 136 extends radially outwardly from cylinder130 and, therefore, has a larger diameter than cylinder 130. Cylinder130 is sized with a diameter sufficient to fit within button aperture104. Conversely, rim 136 has a diameter greater than the overalldiameter of button aperture 104 of cover 24.

FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of light circuit 14. Light circuit 14includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 140, light 20, at least onebattery 142, and a switch 144, and provides one example of means forproviding illumination to stored-value card 10. Light 20, battery 142,and switch 144 are each mounted to PCB 140 and are each electricallycoupled to the other components 20, 142, 144, and 146 of light circuit14. In one embodiment, PCB 140 includes electrical traces, one or moreresistors, one or more capacitors, and/or any suitable number of otherelectrical components facilitating the proper function of audio circuit14 and/or electrical connection of electrical components mounted on PCB140.

Battery 142 provides electrical power to PCB 140 and light 20. In oneembodiment, battery 142 includes an alkaline battery such as a standardAG10 1.5 volt battery or any other suitable battery or batteries. In oneexample, light 20 is coupled to PCB 140 via leads 146, which extend awayfrom PCB 140. Leads 146 extend from PCB 140 generally parallel to oneanother to interface with light 20 generally opposite PCB 140. In oneexample, leads 146 are elongated metal rods, which conduct the flow ofelectricity between light 20 and the remainder of light circuit 14.Leads 146 are sufficiently stiff and rigid to maintain light 20generally suspended from leads 146 within housing 12.

In one embodiment, light 20 includes a light-emitting diode (LED),although any other suitable source of illumination may be alternativelyor additionally utilized. For example, light 20 is one of clear orcolored LED. Although only a single light 20 is illustrated, a pluralityof lights may be included in stored-value card 10 as desired.

In one embodiment, switch 144 is a snap or pressure sensitive switchmounted to PCB 140 in a manner causing the illumination of light 20 upondepression of switch 144. Depression of switch 144 closes light circuit14 thereby drawing current from the at least one battery 142 to light20. Current from battery 142 serves to power and illuminate light 20. Inone example, light circuit 14 includes a timer (not shown) forregulating the length of time light 20 is illuminated followingdepression of switch 144. In one embodiment, the current drawn by lightcircuit 14 during times of non-illumination of light 20 is sufficientlylow to allow, for a number of months or years, the at least one battery142 to provide power to light circuit 14.

As illustrated in the embodiment of FIG. 6, during assembly, lightcircuit 14 is coupled to base 22. In particular, PCB 140 of lightcircuit 14 is adhered to base 22 within light assembly indentation 70.More specifically, light circuit 14 is placed within indentation 70 ofbase 22 such that switch 144 generally aligns with button aperture 104of cover 24 upon assembly. In one embodiment, placement of light circuit14 also places light 20 to extend over notch 49 of base 22 and leads 146to extend over and be at least partially supported by light holders 72and 74. In one example, light 20 extends or protrudes outside of anouter perimeter of base 22. Accordingly, the light circuit 14 is adheredto housing 12, more particularly, to base 22.

Button 16 is placed within button aperture 104 such that cylinder 130 ofbutton 16 fits within rim 106 of button aperture 104 and rim 136 ofbutton 16 interfaces with rim 106 of button aperture 104. In thisrespect, rim 106 of button 16 prevents button 16 from falling throughbutton aperture 104 towards the outside of cover 24.

Once light circuit 14, and button 16 are in place, cover 24 is placedupon base 22, or vice versa, thereby generally aligning button 16 withswitch 144 of light circuit 14 and interposing light 20 between base 22and cover 24 to extend through notches 49 and 99. In this respect, light20 extends out of side wall 38 and 88 beyond the general outer perimeterof stored-value card 10. Accordingly, light 20 so positioned is oneexample of means for providing illumination to at least a portion of theside wall of stored-value card 10.

Additionally, base 22 and cover 24 are positioned so inside edge 44 ofbase 22 interfaces with inside edge 94 of cover 24. More specifically,first portion 46 and second portion 48 of inside edge 44 interface withfirst portion 96 and second portion 98 of inside edge 94, respectively.The stepped surface provides for a stable and generally neat coupling ofbase 22 and cover 24. Housing 12 formed by base 22 and cover 24 is oneexample of means for at least partially housing light circuit 14.

Once cover 24 is mated with base 22, each aperture 50 in base 22generally aligns with one of threaded cavities 102 in cover 24.Attachment mechanisms, such as screws 158 are threaded through apertures50 and into corresponding threaded cavities 102. In this respect, base22 is secured to cover 24. Other methods of securing base 22 to cover24, such as with adhesive or a snap fit, are also contemplated.Accordingly, housing 12 is an example means for housing light circuit14. In one embodiment, assembled housing 12 is generally about 54 mmwide, about 85.6 mm long, and about 7 mm thick.

Following securing of base 22 to cover 24, face panel 18 is applied tooutside surface 90 of cover 24. In particular, face panel 18 is fitwithin panel indentation 110. Accordingly, face panel 18 is adhered inplace to cover 24. When aligned and placed on cover 24, button indicator128 of face panel 18 generally aligns with button 16. In one embodiment,upon assembly, face panel 18 is applied to cover 24 to coordinateplacement of decorative indicia 124 with the position of light 20. Moreparticularly, in an example in which decorative indicia 124 includes aclown with a portion of clown adjacent to the expected placement of oneof its eyes, buttons, clothing spots, nose, etc. being positioned nearan edge of face panel 18 and light 20 is a red light, upon assembly,light 20 is positioned generally adjacent to or to otherwise correspondwith the expected position of the eye, button, spot of clothing, nose,etc. of the clown. With this in mind, illumination of the light appearsas a glowing red nose of the clown.

Other configurations and combinations of decorative indicia 124 andlight 20 are also contemplated in which decorative indicia 124 depicts afirst portion of a subject or scene and light 20 provides a secondportion of the subject or scene. For example, other characters, objects,animals, etc. can be used in place of the clown as the subject and light20 can be clear or be anyone of a variety of colors placed to representany portion of the subject. In other embodiments, face panel 18 isapplied to cover 24 before assembling cover 24 with button 16 and/orbase 24. Accordingly, face panel 18 is one example of means forproviding decorative indicia to primary surface 30 of cover 24.

Upon assembly, stored-value card 10 functions to both amuse the cardbearer, e.g. consumers and/or recipients, and to entice consumers topurchase stored-value card 10. In particular, upon a consumer orrecipient pressing face panel 18 in a position corresponding with buttonindicator 128, button 16 is depressed thereby depressing switch 144 oflight circuit 14. Depression of switch 144 completes light circuit 14(i.e., draws current from battery 142 towards light 20 as illustratedwith reference to FIG. 5) causing light 20 to be illuminated, andthereby adding to the overall visual effect of stored-value card 10. Assuch, button 16 and/or switch 144 provide one example of means foractivating or illuminating light circuit 14 upon a demand by the bearerof stored-value card 10. Therefore, the consumer and/or recipient arepresented with both a stored-value card and a source of additionalamusement.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a carrier or backer 170 for supportingstored-value card 10. Stored-value card 10 is readily releasablyattached to backer 170, for example by an adhesive 172 or the like, andis represented in phantom lines in FIG. 7A. Backer 170 comprises asingle layer or multiple layers of paper or plastic material, forexample, generally in the form of a relatively stiff butbendable/flexible card. Other materials area also contemplated. Backer170 displays indicia, graphics or text information including storelogo(s), store name(s), slogans, advertising, instructions, directions,brand indicia, promotional information, media format indicia (e.g.characters, logos, scenes, or other illustrations or photographsrelating to at least one of a movie, television show, book, video game,etc.), and/or other information. With this in mind, backer 170 providesone example means for associating stored-value card 10 with at least oneof a product brand, a store, a holiday, a season, an occasion, and mediaformat indicia.

Indicia 174, for example, include to, from, initial gift card value, andmessage fields. Indicia 176 promote that stored-value card 10 includes aplayable sound or audible file. In particular, in one example, indicia176 encourage a user to press stored-value card 10 to cause the audiofile to be played. For example, in one embodiment, indicia 176 state“Press the button. I light up!” Indicia 178 notify a user and promotethat additional value can always be added to stored-value card 10.

Indicia 180 indicate that stored-value card 10 is redeemable for thepurchase of goods and/or services and that, upon use, a value of thepurchased goods and/or services will be deducted from the financialaccount or record linked to stored-value card 10. In one embodiment,indicia 180 include phrases such as “<NAME OF STORE> GiftCard” and “ThisGiftCard is redeemable for merchandise or services at any of our storesor at our website,” and/or provides help or phone line information incase of a lost, stolen, or damaged stored-value card 10, etc. Indicia181 identify a store, brand, department, etc. and/or services associatedwith stored-value card 10. Any of indicia 174, 176, 178, 180, 181, orother indicia, optionally may appear anywhere on backer 170 orstored-value card 10. Additional information besides that specificallydescribed and illustrated herein also may be included.

Backer 170 defines a window or opening 182 for displaying accountidentifier 60 of stored-value card 10 as illustrated in FIG. 7B. Aspreviously described, account identifier 60 is adapted for accessing afinancial account or record associated with stored-value card 10 foractivating, loading, or debiting from the account or record.Accordingly, window 182 allows access to account identifier 60 toactivate and/or load stored-value card 10 without removing stored-valuecard 10 from backer 170.

In one embodiment, backer 170 is a bi-fold substrate defining foldline(s) 184, about which backer 170 is foldable roughly in half. InFIGS. 7A and 7B, backer 170 is unfolded, i.e. is in an openconfiguration. According to one embodiment, FIG. 7A illustrates surfacesof backer 170 that will be supported on a rack or other fixture to facea customer of a retail store who is considering the purchase ofstored-value card 10. In another example, while on display in a retailstore, backer 170 is folded back about at least one of fold lines 184 topresent only the surfaces of backer 170 illustrated in FIG. 7A andpositioned on the same side of fold lines 184 as stored-value card 10 toa consumer. In such an embodiment, indicia 174 and 178 would not bevisible to a consumer when backer 170 and stored-value card are placedfor display in the retail store.

After purchase, backer 170 is foldable about fold lines 184 such thatthe FIG. 7A surfaces of backer 170 are folded towards each other andstored-value card 10 is enclosed in a compact package formed by foldedbacker 170 as illustrated with additional reference to the side view ofFIG. 8. In this manner, the surfaces of backer 170 illustrated in FIG.7B are disposed toward the outside of the folded, compact package,according to embodiments of the invention. In one example, backer 170folded as illustrated in FIG. 8 effectively wraps stored-value card 10for presentation from a consumer to a recipient. In one embodiment, foldlines 184 are two fold lines slightly spaced from one another toaccommodate a thickness of stored-value card 10. Folding in the otherdirection about fold lines 184, or about other fold line(s) of backer170, is also contemplated.

In one embodiment, backer 170 additionally includes a tab 186 extendingfrom one edge of backer 170 running parallel to fold lines 184. Anadditional fold line 188 runs between tab 186 and the remainder ofbacker 170. In addition, a generally semi-circular cut 190 is formedfrom tab 186 through fold line 188 and partially onto the remainder ofbacker 170. In one embodiment, cut 190 is generally centered upon tab186 and backer 170. Accordingly, semi-circular cut 190 defines agenerally semi-circular flap 192 which can be partially bent away fromthe remainder of tab 186 and backer 170.

More specifically, upon folding of backer 170 about fold lines 184, tab186 is folded upward about fold line 188 and flap 192 is pulled awayfrom tab 186 to interface with an opposing edge of backer 170. In thisrespect, the opposing edge of backer 170 can be tucked beneath flap 192to maintain backer 170 in a folded position as illustrated in FIG. 8.Backers similar to backer 170 can be used with various sizes and shapesof stored-value card 10. Other backers or packages are also contemplatedfor supporting stored-value card 10. Backer 170 is one example of meansfor removably supporting stored-value card 10 for display in a retailsetting.

FIG. 9 illustrates another embodiment of a stored-value card generallyat 200. Stored-value card 200 is similar to stored-value card 10 exceptfor those characteristics specifically enumerated herein. Stored-valuecard 200 includes a base 202, a cover 204, and a face panel 206 similarto base 22, cover 24, and face panel 18, respectively. However, cover204 includes a light aperture 208 formed through a primary panel 210,similar to primary panel 80. Accordingly, light will be emitted fromlight 20 through a top surface (e.g. primary panel 80) of stored-valuecard 200 rather than protruding outside the outer perimeter ofstored-value card 10, such as out an edge or side wall of thestored-value card as described with respect to stored-value card 10above. Face panel 206 also includes a light aperture 212 positioned togenerally align with light aperture 208 of cover 204 upon assembly ofstored-value card 200.

Once stored-value card 200 is assembled, light circuit 14 is positionedsuch that light 20 fits within the interior of base 202 (i.e. is fullymaintained within the housing and does not extend beyond one of sidewalls 32, 34, 36, and 38). Cover 204 is applied to base 202 as describedabove and results in light 20 generally aligning with light apertures208 and 212 of cover 204 and face panel 206, respectively. In oneembodiment, a color filter and/or diffusive sheet 220 (indicated indashed lines) is adhered to an inside surface of cover 204 to diffuse orcolor the light emitted out of stored-value card 200 from light 20during use. Diffusive sheet 220 is formed of cellophane, paper, or othersuitable material.

In one embodiment, a light containment device 222, such as a box orchannel, is placed generally about light 20 in order to contain lightemitted from light 20. More specifically, light containment device 222is open towards light aperture 208 but closed off in at least one otherdirection relative to light 20. In this respect, light aperture 208directs emitted light toward light aperture 208 and at least partiallyblocks or impedes disbursement of light 208 throughout the inside ofstored-value card 200. By directing light toward light aperture 208, alarger amount of light is emitted for viewing by a customer orrecipient. Combinations of lights extending outside of housing 12, asfor stored-value card 10, and lights contained within housing 12, as forstored-value card 200, are also contemplated.

Stored-value cards come in many forms, according to embodiments of theinvention. The gift card, like other stored-value cards, can be“re-charged” or “reloaded” at the direction of the original consumer,the gift recipient, or third party. The term “loading on” or “loaded on”herein should be interpreted to include adding to the balance of afinancial account or record associated with a stored-value card. Thebalance associated with a stored-value card declines as the card isused, encouraging repeat visits. The card remains in the user's purse orwallet, serving as an advertisement or reminder to re-visit theassociated merchant. Gift cards, according to embodiments of theinvention, provide a number of advantages to both the consumer and themerchant. Other gift cards and stored-value cards according toembodiments of the invention include loyalty cards, merchandise returncards, electronic gift certificates, employee cards, frequency cards,pre-paid cards, and other types of cards associated with or representingpurchasing power or monetary value, for example.

Although the invention has been described with respect to particularembodiments, such embodiments are for illustrative purposes only andshould not be considered to limit the invention. Various alternativesand changes will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Forexample, stored-value card 10 or 200 optionally is a physical card madeof plastic, paper, generally stiff paper, other substrate, or the like.Adding value to stored-value card 10 or 200 optionally includes addingeither a fixed amount or an amount that can be chosen by the customer orother user. Other modifications within the scope of the invention in itsvarious embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill.

1. A stored-value card comprising: a housing including a cover and abase, the cover and the base each defining a respective primary paneland a plurality of side walls extending from the respective primarypanel, wherein the plurality of side walls defined by the base abut theplurality of side walls defined by the cover; a light circuit includinga light and a switch, the light circuit being substantially enclosedbetween the base and the cover, wherein the light is configured to emitillumination upon user interaction with the switch; and an accountidentifier linking the stored-value card to an account or record suchthat value from the account or record can be used as payment toward apurchase of one or more of goods and services.
 2. The stored-value cardof claim 1, wherein the light is enclosed between the base and thecover.
 3. The stored-value card of claim 2, wherein one of the cover andthe base defines an aperture in the respective primary panel, theaperture being positioned such that illumination from the light isemitted through the aperture.
 4. The stored-value card of claim 3,wherein one of a filter and a light diffuser extends across the apertureto alter an appearance of illumination from the light that is emittedthrough the aperture.
 5. The stored-value card of claim 3, furthercomprising a face panel extending over a substantial portion of therespective primary panel defined by the cover, wherein the aperture is ahousing aperture, and the face panel includes a light aperture alignedwith the housing aperture such that illumination from the light isemitted through the housing aperture and the light aperture.
 6. Thestored-value card of claim 5, wherein the face panel depicts a firstportion of one of a subject and a scene and the light is positioned suchthat illumination thereof represents a second portion of the one of thesubject and the scene, the second portion being positioned adjacent thefirst portion.
 7. The stored-value card of claim 3, further comprising alight directing device extending around the light between the respectiveprimary panel defined by the cover and the respective primary paneldefined by the base to direct illumination emitted from the light towardthe aperture.
 8. A stored-value card assembly comprising: a lightcircuit including a light; an enclosure including a first planar paneland a second planar panel spaced from the first planar panel to define acavity therebetween, wherein the light circuit is substantially housedwithin the cavity; a button formed separately from and extending throughthe enclosure, wherein the button selectively interfaces with the lightcircuit to activate illumination of the light upon user interaction withthe button; and a link to an account or record such that value from theaccount or record can be used as payment toward a purchase of one ormore of goods and services.
 9. The stored-value card assembly of claim8, further comprising a face panel extending over a portion of theenclosure and the button to substantially hide the button from view, theface panel including a button indicator indicating a position of thebutton beneath the face panel.
 10. The stored-value card assembly ofclaim 8, wherein the enclosure includes a cover and a base, the coverdefining the first planar panel, the base defining the second planarpanel, and the cover and the base collectively define a side wallextending from the first planar panel to the second planar panel, andwherein each of the cover and the base is formed of injection moldedplastic.
 11. The stored-value card assembly of claim 8, wherein theenclosure defines an aperture, and the light extends out of theenclosure via the aperture.
 12. The stored-value card assembly of claim8 wherein one of the first planar panel and the second planar paneldefines an aperture aligned with the light, which is enclosed within thecavity, such that illumination from the light is emitted from the cavityvia the aperture.
 13. The stored-value card assembly of claim 12,wherein one of a filter and a light diffuser extends across the aperturesuch that illumination emitted from the light passes through one of thefilter and the light diffuser.
 14. The stored-value card assembly ofclaim 12, further comprising a face panel extending across and adheredto the one of the first planar panel and the second planar panel thatdefines the aperture, wherein the face panel is substantially planar.15. The stored-value card assembly of claim 12, further comprising alight directing device positioned within the enclosure near the lightand extending between the first planar panel and the second planarpanel, wherein the light directing device is configured to directillumination from the light toward the aperture.
 16. A gift cardassembly comprising: means for providing illumination including meansfor activating illumination of the means for providing illumination;means for enclosing the means for providing illumination, the means forenclosing including means for allowing a user to interact with the meansfor activating illumination; means for covering a substantial entiretyof a first planar panel defined by the means for enclosing; and meansfor linking the gift card assembly with at least one of an account and arecord having a value associated therewith such that the gift cardassembly can be used as payment toward a purchase of one or more ofgoods and services.
 17. The gift card assembly of claim 16, wherein themeans for enclosing defines a first light aperture aligned with themeans for providing illumination, and the means for covering defines asecond light aperture positioned to align with the first light aperturesuch that illumination emitted from the means for providing illuminationis directed out of the means for enclosing through the first lightaperture and the second light aperture.
 18. The gift card assembly ofclaim 16, further comprising means for directing illumination from themeans for providing illumination toward an aperture defined by the meansfor enclosing, wherein the means for directing illumination is enclosedwithin the means for enclosing.
 19. A method of promoting sales and useof a stored-value card, the method comprising: providing a lightconfigured to be selectively illuminated upon receipt of a demand from abearer of the stored-value card; providing a housing enclosing thelight, the housing including a first planar member, which defines anaperture extending entirely through the first planar member, theaperture being aligned with the light such that illumination from thelight is emitted out of the housing through the aperture when the lightis illuminated; providing one of a filter and a diffusive sheetextending across the aperture to one of filter and diffuse illuminationfrom the light that is emitted through the aperture when the light isilluminated; providing a link to a financial account or record, whereinthe link is connected to the housing; and displaying the stored-valuecard to potential consumers including promoting that the light isconfigured to be selectively illuminated upon receipt of the demand fromthe bearer of the stored-value card.
 20. The method of claim 19, whereinthe housing includes a second planar member, which is positionedopposite to and spaced from the first planar member, and a lightcontainment device including walls extending from the first planarmember to the second planar member to direct illumination from the lighttoward the aperture.
 21. The method of claim 19, further comprisingaccepting the stored-value card as payment for goods or servicesincluding deducting a value of the goods or services from the financialaccount or record.
 22. The method of claim 19, further comprisingactivating the stored-value card by scanning the link such that a valueassociated with the financial account or record is available for use aspayment for goods or services.
 23. The method of claim 22, furthercomprising adding additional value to the financial account or record,wherein the adding includes scanning the link to access the financialaccount or record.